What is the Best Electric Fireplace?
You are at home, The cold weather is here or approximating at quick pace, you know that the heating system at your place is not going to be enough to keep your family cozy and warm, and then you think about a solution: A supplementary space heater. But you want something elegant, exclusive, beautiful and even romantic: A fireplace.
Then you start to imagine the warm, inviting, fireplace along with the sound cracking air, consumed by the dancing flames, converting the otherwise routinely moment into a romantic, relaxing and very special occasion. However, that picture in your imagination blurs out very quickly when you start to realize about the many inconveniences: The overwhelming smoke, the piled up Ashes that will remain to be cleaned, the engulfing toxic elements that affect the environment and the risk of breathing problems that can occur.
Also and very important, the labor at your home and the high costs of this giant project make this idea a very difficult process task, moreover an impossible one if you just do happen to live in an apartment building.
But there is a practical, safe and clean solution at a fraction of the price: A beautiful and very realistic electric fireplace. Nowadays, electric fireplaces are getting more in demand. But how to choose the right Electric FIreplace? Don’t worry, keep reading and we will show you the best of the best, but first, some considerations.
How to Choose the Best Electric Fireplace insert for your Home
Electric fireplaces for homes are heaters that resemble to a fireplace burning coal, natural gas or wood. The only difference is that from the name itself – it uses electricity. is usually placed in conventional fireplaces that can no longer be used for conventional fires or can be wall mounted. You only need to plug these units into the wall and choose the “flame only” setting or it may be used as a heater. A typical electric fireplace consumes 1.4 to 1.6 kW that can heat a 36 to 38 square meter room. You can also find a wide variety of electrical fireplace freestanding stoves.
Electric fire Heaters were first used during the 1912 and it became common during the 1950s. Since then, various techniques for the flame have emerged during the 1980s. One of these techniques is the Optiflame by Dimplex. This technique was introduced in 1988.
According to Dimplex, they are the first one to achieve a realistic wood-burning flame effect in 1995. After more than 10 years, Dimplex released another effect call the “opti-myst” effect which is a combination of smoke and flames.
Several years after, Dimplex also launched another realistic flickering flame, but this time, they use 3-D LED logs that combine an audio element of crackling logs and sparks.
Compared to the traditional fireplaces, electric fireplaces have various advantages. The first one is that they do not require chimneys. The construction of chimneys may be costly and require constant cleaning and maintenance. Furthermore, electric fireplaces are usually portable, and you don’t need to remodel it to install.
Electric fireplaces are also more convenient, economical and safer to use since you don’t need to create real fire. Lastly, it does not require the maintenance needed for gas or wood burning fireplaces.
However, the use of electric fireplace also comes with some disadvantages. Some people say that electric fireplaces are less efficient because it cannot generate much heat as compared to the traditional fireplaces. It is costly to buy electric heaters. Some people also say that the flames created by the electric flames are not as realistic as the real flames. Lastly, you cannot expose it to the weather.
Electric Fireplace or Gas Fireplace?
Most people are torn between the use of electric or vent-free gas fireplace for their homes. Although it is true that these two are both less expensive compared to installing a vented wood burning for your home, these two still has their differences. Vent-free gas fireplace creates real flames and it uses real gas for fuel while electric fireplaces give off heat even without flame. It is undeniable that these two also vary when it comes to the energy that is being consumed. Electric fireplace might cost 3 cents per hour without the heat on and 8 cents with heat turned on. For the gas fireplace, the running cost is more or less 16 cents per hour, but it can generate more heat.
In terms of safety, these two also has their differences. You need to ensure that gas appliances are properly installed and built to code. One must be knowledgeable with the equipment and installation of gas appliances. And it is a fact that hiring an expert who can install a vent-free gas fireplace can be expensive.
Electric Fireplaces are Cheaper and Safer!
Compared to gas fireplaces, vent-free gas fireplaces and vented wood-burning, electric fireplaces are cheaper. The electric fireplaces are very easy to install because you only need to plug it in. You don’t need to ask for an expert’s help and you don’t need to monitor the holes in the exterior walls.
Here are some of the options in the market to start having your electric fireplaces:
TV stand with fireplace (media fireplace).
The TV stand with fireplace is a combination of fashion and function for your large room. Your family can now enjoy their stay into your entertainment room by enjoying the functionality and convenience brought by the fireplace and a media center. These electric fireplaces are available in various sizes and electric fireplace inserts can match your corner unit, mantel cabinet or entertainment center. Just like any other furniture, you can place and move it anywhere you want as long as there is an electrical outlet.
These heaters can deliver 10,000 BTUs of heat without the scent of wood fire. This is ideal for kids and adults who are allergic to smoke and soot from a wood fire. It is also easier to clean and electric fireplaces can save your family from health issues like difficulty in breathing and asthma.
Electric Fireplace Insert
There are two options of electric fireplace insert for your large room. One is the electric fireplace log insert that is inserted into an existing wood or gas fireplace. The other one is a plug-in insert. The plug-in insert is a box that has four sides and it acts as an entire fireplace unit. These units are available in different sizes and can be installed in an existing masonry firebox.
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These two electric-fireplace inserts already come pre-wired. You only need to have a standard electrical outlet. You can install this in a snap by just placing the unit into the existing firebox and plug it in.
Another great feature of the electric fireplace insert is that it provides zone heating so if there are rooms that are not occupied, your room can still remain warm because of the fireplace insert. This can help you save energy compared to the use of central heat system for your house. Each unit can give off 4000 to 5000 BTUs of heat through the use of a quiet fan that blows the heat from the insert into the area.Electric Fireplace Log
An electric fireplace log is another option for your room; you can install this in a breeze. The logs look real and can create a realistic flame effect. The electric logs are placed on a grate that generates the heat and lighting effects. This is child-friendly and is proven safe for pets because it will remain cool to touch. This might cost 3 cents per hour without heat or 7 to 12 cents with the heat turned on.
Wall Mount Electric Fireplaces
For those who want to achieve the feeling that the traditional fireplace gives, you should consider having a wall mount electric fireplace. This is way cheaper than the cost of installing a traditional fireplace. This can suit your needs and lifestyle because it comes in various colors and designs. This is not just ideal for homes but also for offices, apartments and lofts. You can also use this during any of the four seasons. You can turn the heat on and off and this can complement your large room. This can also make your room a more romantic place and can make your guests feel at home without the use of heat that comes with a flame.
What is the best brand and model of electric fireplace?
If you are looking for a specific brand and model, here are some good options for you. These products are said to be the best electric fireplace heaters for 2023:
1. Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove
If you want a portable fireplace, you should consider the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove. Though this fireplace heater is portable, it is proven durable and efficient in keeping your home warm. This is also available in several colors to match the design of your room. The Quartz Fireplace Stove is made up of metal and it has windows and a glass door that you can open. It can produce 3D flame to make it seem like a real fire. This electric fireplace measures 24×23” and is well-built. It is also safe for kids and pets because it remains cool to touch. It also comes with a remote and it has a timer. Overall, it is functional and even if it is portable, it can still be ideal for large rooms.
2. Lifesmart Large Room Infrared Quartz Fireplace in Burnished Oak Finish w/Remote
If you are looking for a budget-friendly yet sturdy electric fireplace, you should try the Lifesmart Large Room Infrared Quartz Fireplace. This has a classic design and you can change the flame depending on your mood. This measures 28”L X 11”W X 20”H and has a glass door for you to see the fake flame and woods. You can change the heat settings into three different modes.
3. Ameriwood Home Chicago Fireplace TV Console
This fireplace is created into a sleek TV console, so you can easily install the heather into your entertainment or living room. This can be used for small or large rooms and it supports a flat screen TV that measures 43 to 50 inches. The Ameriwood Home Chicago Fireplace TV console comes in a sleek dark espresso design. The console measures 31 by 47 inches and it features various storages. You can use this for your TV and even for your other accessories to provide a homey feel to your house. The electric fireplace is powered by an LED light to ensure that you can save energy. This LED light can last for more than 50,000 hours. This is perfect for medium up to large-sized rooms.
4. Best Choice Products Large 1500W Heat Adjustable Electric Wall Mount & Free-Standing Fireplace Heater
If you want a wall-mounted electric fireplace heater, you should consider the Best Choice Products Large 1500W Heat Adjustable Electric Wall Mount & Free-Standing Fireplace Heater. This has a modern and elegant design and it is very easy to install. This measures 35 by 22 inches and it has a tempered glass at the front. You can either mount it into your wall or let it stand on its own. It comes with a remote control, so you can change its settings. It is proven safe and this can help you save some money. This creates 3D flame to produce real fire.
5. VonHaus Electric Stove Heater Fireplace
The VonHaus Electric Stove Heater Fireplace is also hailed as one of the best electric fireplaces in the market. If your home’s interior resembles a rustic and old design, this is a perfect addition to your home. This looks like a real wood stove and your guests can enjoy looking the fake flames whenever you want to relax.
This measures 16.8W x 10.8L x 20H and it has a fan-forced air heater that can generate heat that is enough to keep a medium-sized to large-sized room warm. It also has an adjustable thermostat, so you can choose the right temperature for your house. The VonHaus Free Standing Electric Stove Heater is easy to install and has received a lot of positive feedback from the previous users because of its efficiency and great appearance.
Why to choose an Electric Fireplace
There are a lot of fireplaces available on the market nowadays. It can be tricky to choose the right one for your home. It comes in various colors, designs, and ways to operate. Wood and gas fireplaces are now outdated because it can be costly when it comes to installation and maintenance. The moment you purchase the fireplace, the endless expenses begin. Starting from the installation wherein you need to ask for an expert’s help, up to the maintenance to make sure it works properly, it can really burn a hole in your pocket. That’s mainly the reason why most people choose electric fireplaces and electric fireplaces inserts over the traditional fireplaces. These electric fireplaces give you more flexibility compared to gas or wood-burning fireplaces. It comes with a thermostat for you to achieve the ideal warmth that you want. You and your family can now enjoy your stay in the living room even on cold winter nights. Furthermore, purchasing electric fireplace can also friendly for the environment; as we all know burning gas or wood can be harmful to the environment.
10 Best Selling Electric Fireplace
If you’re wondering where to purchase the best electric fireplace in the market, Amazon offers you wide-ranging options, here are their top 10 best selling electric fireplaces:
1. LifeSmart Large Room Infrared Quartz Fireplace in Burnished Oak Finish with Remote
Without venting needed, you can install the LifeSmart infrared fireplace anywhere. This is perfect even for a large room and it comes in a wonderful oak finish to give an accent to your room. Compared to the usual electric fireplaces in the market, this product uses infrared heater to make your room warm. This has 3 commercial grade quartz infrared elements to produce the warmth that you need. You can also expect a warranty for the entire year. All you need is to plug it into a standard 15amp 110-volt outlet. The most interesting part is that it can produce an amazing and realistic flame that looks like dancing. You can operate this fireplace even without heat, so your family can still have a nice view into your living room even during summer. The LifeSmart infrared fireplace also has a remote control so you can change the settings from afar.
2. Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect and Remote Control
If you are looking for a nice and affordable fireplace for your home, you should consider the Duraflame DFI-5010-01 Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove with 3D Flame Effect. It is perfect for small rooms and it is very convenient to use because of its portability. It is also safe for your kids and pets at home. You can also bring this to any of your rooms because you can easily move it from one place to another. You can place it into your living room, bedroom, kitchen, wherever heat is needed to keep your room warm. Another good thing is that it does not dry out the air, so you will still feel fresh and comfortable. This fireplace also features a realistic 3D flame effect, so you and your loved ones can enjoy watching the dancing flames while relaxing after a long, tiring day. It doesn’t make you feel any less than having a real wood-burning fireplace, not to mention it is not as messy as having a wood-burning fireplace. You can also customize the brightness to 5 different settings to give your room a different ambiance.
This product also features the innovative technology called the patent-pending safer plug which can make you feel at ease. When the temperature rises above the safe level, the plug will quickly shut off to prevent overheating that might cause fire. The use of infrared is also an advantage for the product because it can produce heat that can make your room warm even for large rooms. The infrared heat also makes your home environment-friendly because it can maintain natural humidity in the air. Maintaining the humidity in the air is also important to keep your family’s skin moisturized and healthy.
3. Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace TV Console for TVs up to a 50″
For those minimalists out there that do not have a large space at home, you might want to consider the Ameriwood Home Chicago Electric Fireplace TV console. This fireplace comes with storage and a place where you can place your TV. The TV stand supports a 50-inch flat screen TV with a maximum weight of 70 pounds. The storage panels are perfect for your Blue-Ray player, books, DVDs and even for your cable box. This fireplace can heat a room that measures 400-square feet. You can also use this fireplace even without heat. The Ameriwood Home Chicago fireplace also has an LED light that can last up to 50,000 hours. Enjoy the Ameriwood Home Chicago fireplace during winter or summer.
4. Touchstone 80001 Onyx Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace 50″, Logset & Crystal, 1500W
The Touchstone 8001 Onyx Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace is perfect for those who do not want to spend a lot of money for the installation of a good fireplace. This is also perfect for those who do not like huge and bulky fireplaces since this can be mounted into the wall. You can easily mount this fireplace into your wall. This fireplace measures 50 inches and it weighs 46 lbs. so it wouldn’t be hard to place it into your wall. Instructions are also provided. You only need to hang it and secure it using drywall screws. This Touchstone 80001 Onyx Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace keeps you away from the dirt and mess brought by firewood fireplaces. This fireplace also has 2 heat settings that can keep a 400-feet room warm. You can set it into high or low depending on the season. This can ensure that you will still feel comfortable and fresh. The flame comes in 5 settings to set the mood of your room. You can set it into dull or bright plus it can also run without heat. The fireplace also features a realistic log set to give realistic flames. The Touchstone 80001 Onyx Wall Hanging Electric Fireplace also serves not just a fireplace to keep your home warm but also as a home décor to give your home a modern and elegant look. This can be placed not just into your living room but also to your library, bedroom and even to your kitchen. The product also has a built-in timer and you can set this for 30 minutes to 7 and a half hours. This fireplace also can save you a lot of money since it uses LED technology.
5. VonHaus Electric Fireplace Stove Heater with Log Wood Burning Flame Effect Light – Portable Free-Standing Space Heater 1500W
Another smart buy if you are looking for a great fireplace is the VonHaus Electric Fireplace Stove Heater. This can keep a 150sq foot room warm and it is safe for kids and pets at home. This features two heat settings; the 1500W and 750W that you can adjust to achieve your desired room temperature. All you need to do is to plug it in and turn it on to experience the glow of a realistic flame effect. If you don’t need heat and you just want to enjoy the feeling that the flames give. This is also possible with the VonHaus Electric Fireplace. The good thing about this product is that you can place it anywhere there is a plug socket and it can stand on its own. You will also adore its classic black finish that seems like cast iron. It also has a molded log bed that can create a realistic flame that will work with or without heat. But unlike the real stove, this does not heat so it is proven safe from overheating. The heater comes with a thermal cut off device making it perfect not just for your home but even for your office.
6. PuraFlame 30″ Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Remote Control, 750/1500W
The PuraFlame 30” Western Electric Fireplace is a nice firebox that is energy saving and has an elegant design. It also has a useful multi-function remote control. This features a realistic flame that has backlit LEDs flame. There are 3 settings of brightness with realistic resin logs and ember bed to produce a realistic flame. You can use this fireplace with or without heat which makes it perfect for any weather. This can keep a room measuring 400 square ft warm and cozy. You can also adjust the temperature into low or high. It is also proven safe because it has an overheating protection.
7. Southern Enterprises Tennyson Electric Fireplace with Bookcase
If you are looking for an additional elegant piece for your home, the Southern Enterprises Tennyson Electric Fireplace is perfect for you. This fireplace comes in ivory finish and is not just beautiful; it is also functional. You can use this as storage for your books and other entertainment devices or accessories. There are six shelves overall. You can place this into your entertainment room or bedroom and it is an energy saving product because it uses the LED technology. You can use the remote to adjust its warm settings, the thermostat, flames, logs and timer. It is also comes with various safety features such as the automatic shutoff and the glass remains cool to touch.
8. Touchstone Sideline Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplaces 50″
This fireplace comes in an elegant black design which can give your room a modern look. This is designed for in-wall installation. The Touchstone Sideline Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace measures 50 inches and it is very easy to install. It comes with a step by step procedure that you can easily follow. This fireplace comes with high and low heat settings. You can use this for winter or even for windy days. It also features heat vents and the heat levels can be adjusted according to your desire. The Touchstone Sideline Recessed Mounted Electric Fireplace also has a realistic flame that is available in 3 colors such as blue, orange and blue-orange. You can also change the glow with its 5 settings. The remote control allows you to modify the heat and flame settings. This fireplace is definitely a total package and worth the money. To give a more realistic feel, it also has a faux fire log and crystals. It can run on 1,500 watts with 120V. This fireplace can keep a 400 ft room warm. It is recommended to place the fireplace at least 12 inches below the ceiling.
9. Southern Enterprises Calvert Carved Electric Fireplace, Ivory Finish with Brushed Texture
Elegance and sophistication are the perfect description for this classic ivory fireplace. The Southern Enterprises Calvert Carved Electric Fireplace can make a 400 square ft room warm and cozy. It comes with a remote control that allows you to change the logs, flame, timer and appearance. The design is also great because it is a combination of floral and ivory finish. The remote control also features a child safety lock which not all fireplaces have. This will not make a hole in your pocket because of its energy-saving features. It is also safe for kids because it has a protective glass that stays cool to the touch.
10. PuraFlame Alice 50″ Recessed Electric Fireplace, Wall Mounted for 2 x 6 Stud, Log Set & Crystal, 1500W
Another option for those who are looking for a wall mounted fireplace is the PuraFlame Alice 48” Recessed Electric Fireplace. This can fit a 2×6” wall. You can enjoy a bright and realistic flame effect with its Ultra High Intensity LED lights. It also features two options for ember bed which is the crystal stones or log set to suit your mood. There are four various flame settings for you to achieve your desired ambiance. One is the all blue brightness, the yellow with a little bit of blue on the low brightness setting, all yellow on the brightness setting and last but not least is the yellow with a little bit blue brightness. It also comes with two heat settings; the high and low.
